Rosie and Greg have decided to retire after almost 40 years running the cafe.
After almost four decades, Greg and Rosie Savellis have handed over the reins to their takeaway shop - Black Cat Café.
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November 24 was their last hurrah, with new ownership now in place.
Rosie has agreed to stay on for an extra few weeks to share her expertise.
The Savellis’ bought the local eatery in November 1985, when it was located at 326 Cressy Street (now the Centrelink building).
For 19 years, they were open seven days a week, establishing themselves as a fixture of the community by serving locals homemade fare for regular family dinners.
Greg Savellis in the cafe in the early years.
“I’ve had customers say it’s been their compulsory family tradition every Friday night,” Rosie said.
“The community has been very supportive. Without them we still wouldn’t be trading for all this time.”
The three Savellis children - Stan, George and Cassie - have also participated in the tradition, working in the family business during their school years and beyond.
“We’ve had all the kids grow up and help in the shop,” Rosie said.
“It’s definitely a big change to hand over the reins.
“We’ve also had great staff who’ve helped us keep the business going.”
Over the years, Black Cat Café’s regular customers have not only enjoyed tasty treats but the lively conversations with the family.
“Even though we’re looking forward to being retired, we’ll miss all our wonderful customers and the many chats we’ve had.
“We want to thank everyone for their loyalty and appreciate the community who’ve been there throughout our 39 years.
“We wish the new owners all the best and are happy they will be carrying on the legacy of Black Cat Café.”
Rosie Savellis outside the original Black Cat Cafe.
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